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SANCTUARY
SABBATH
ii,*
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RGTOSES
tYFIH
"TAKE heed unto thyself, and unto the
doctrine; continue in them: for in doing
this thou shalt both save thyself, and
them that hear thee." 1 Tim. 4:16.
BIBLE
DOCTRINES
NUMBER THREE
A'
a
t
'
Thirteenth Sabbath Missions Offering
June 26, 1937
SOUTHERN ASIA DIVISION
SECOND QUARTER, 1937 Serial No. 168
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
BIBLE DOCTRINES
Lesson 1 for April 3, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY:
Place a check mark in the proper space.
SUNDAY I
MONDAY
I
TUESDAY 'WEDNESDAY! THURSDAY FRIDAY
I
SABBATH
The Millennium
MEMORY VERSE: "Blessed and holy is he that bath part in the first resurrection:
on such the second death bath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of
Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years." Rev. 20:6.
STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pp. 635-678; "Early Writings," pp.
52-54; "Our Day in the Light of Prophecy," pp. 351-359.
MEANING OF "MILLENNIUM"
1.
What is the meaning of "millennium"? Answer: A thousand years.
NOTE.—The word "millennium" is not in the Bible; but there is a thousand-
year period clearly presented in the twentieth chapter of Revelation. Aside
from this chapter, there is no direct mention of the period. In the study of this
important series of events, therefore, we are shut up to this chapter, with
related material in parallel passages.
EVENTS MARRING THE BEGINNING OF THE MILLENNIUM
2.
With what important event does the millennium begin? Rev. 20:6.
NOTE.—The first resurrection will take place at the beginning of the mil-
lennium. Those who are raised in it will reign with Christ in heaven through
the thousand years.
3.
What people only have part in the first resurrection? Verse 6, first
part.
NoTE.—Those raised at that time are spoken of as "blessed and holy." We
must conclude, therefore, that the first resurrection will be of the righteous
only; and that the wicked, who are called "the rest of the dead" (verse 5),
will not be raised at that time.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 168, April, 1937. 20 cents a year. Published in
the U. S. A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of
S.
D. A.).
Mountain View, California. Entered as second-class matter Oct. 13, 1904, at the
post office in Mountain View, California, under the Act of Congress of March 3, 1879.
Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in section 1103, Act
of Oct. 3, 1917, and authorized Sept. 18, 1918.
[2
)
4.
In connection with what event are those who are "blessed and
holy" raised from the dead? 1 Thess. 4:16, 17.
NOTE.—Since the resurrection of the just and the second coming of Christ
occur at the same time, and since the resurrection of the "blessed and holy"
(Rev. 20:6) precedes the thousand years, it follows that the coming of our
Lord also precedes the millennium. Two events, therefore, will take place at
the beginning of the millennial period—the second coming of Christ and the
first resurrection.
5.
Who will be caught up with those raised from the dead? What
change will take place? 1 Thess. 4:17; 1 Cor. 15:51-54.
NOTE.—As evidence that these two texts refer to the same event—the sec-
ond coming of Christ—compare the "trump" mentioned in 1 Corinthians
15:52 with that in
1
Thessalonians 4:16.
6.
At that time, what promise will be fulfilled? Where will the saints
be taken? With whom will they reign? John 14:2, 3; Rev. 19:1; 20:6.
NoTE.—Belief that there will be a thousand years of peace on earth is not
taught in the Scriptures, and has led men to put off the day of judgment. It
has supported the doctrine that all the world will be converted.
7.
What will befall the wicked when Christ comes? 2 Thess. 2:8; Ps.
37:9-11.
8.
How does the prophet describe the earth's condition as a result of
"the presence of the Lord"? What will become of all the cities? Rev.
16:18, 20; Jer. 4:23-27.
NorE.—This
is a description of the earth at the time of Christ's second
advent, for the text definitely says it will be "at the presence of the Lord."
We have here a complete desolation of the earth, a fit prison house for the
great rebel.
"The whole earth appears like a desolate wilderness. The ruins of cities
and villages destroyed by the earthquake, uprooted trees, ragged rocks thrown
out by the sea or torn out of the earth itself, are scattered over its surface, while
vast caverns mark the spot where the mountains have been rent from their
foundations."—"The
Great Controversy,"
p. 657.
9.
Into what will Satan be cast? How long will he be bound? Rev.
20:1-3.
NOTE.—The chain here used as a figure of speech consists of a combination
of circumstances. The saints at that time will be in heaven, beyond Satan's
temptations. The wicked will be dead; Jeremiah saw "no man." The earth
will be desolate, and covered with darkness. So there will be nothing for the
archdeceiver and his angel confederates to do but to meditate on the ruin they
wrought•through rebellion. They must endure a thousand years of "prison life."
The word here rendered "bottomless pit" is in other versions translated
"abyss," meaning a place of darkness and desolation. No more fitting term
could be found to describe the condition of the earth during the millennium.
"Here is to be the home of Satan with his evil angels for a thousand years.
Limited to the earth, he will not have access to other worlds, to tempt and
annoy those who have never fallen. It is in this sense that he is bound: there
are none remaining, upon whom he can exercise his power. He is wholly cut
off from the work of deception and ruin which for so many centuries has been
his sole delight."—Id., p. 659.
HOLY
CHRIST WI KED SATAN WICKED
CITY
ADD SAINTS I) AD
DESCENDS APPEAR RA SED
LOOSED DESTROYED
SAINTS
POSSESS
The
KINGDOM
SEVEN
SECOND RIGIITEOUS SATAN SAINTS
LAST COMING DEAD BOUND TAKEN
PLAGUES OF CHRIST RAISED
TO HEAVEN
CHRISTIAN AGE
LAST DAYS
1,000 YEARS BETWEEN THE TWO RESURRECTIONS (EARTh DESOLATE)
THE MILLENNIUM
ETERNITY
NEW EARTH STATE
The millennium is the closing period of God's great week of time— a great sabbath of rest to the earth and to the people
of God.
It follows the close of the gospel age, and precedes the setting up of the everlasting kingdom of God on earth.
It comprehends what in the Scriptures is frequently spoken of as " the day of the Lord."
It is bounded at each end by a resurrection.
Its beginning is marked by the pouring out of the seven last plagues, the second coming of Christ, the resurrection of
the righteous dead, the binding of Satan, and the translation of the saints to heaven; and its close, by the descent of the New
Jerusalem, with Christ and the saints, from heaven, the resurrection of the wicked dead, the loosing of Satan, and the final
destruction of the wicked.
During the one thousand years the earth lies desolate; Satan and his angels are confined here; and the saints, with Christ,
sit in judgment on the wicked, preparatory to their final punishment.
The wicked dead are then raised; Satan is loosed for a little season, and he and the host of the wicked encompass the
camp of the saints and the holy city, when fire comes down from God out of heaven and devours them. The earth is cleansed
by the same fire that destroys the wicked, and, renewed, becomes the eternal abode of the
saints.
The
millennium is one of " the ages to come." Its close will mark the beginning of the new earth state.
EVENTS DURING THE THOUSAND YEARS
10.
What work is accomplished in heaven during the millennium?
Rev. 20:4; 1 Cor. 6:2, 3.
11.
What is the nature of this work of judgment? Rev. 20:12, 13.
NoTE.—This is not a picture of the wicked of earth being instructed in
preparation for eternal life, as some teach. There is no second chance of sal-
vation after Jesus comes. Rev. 22:11, 12. Observe that the
dead
are judged.
They are "judged out of those things which were written in the books." They
are judged according to
their works
which were written in the books.
EVENTS MARKING THE CLOSE OF THE MILLENNIUM
12.
As Jesus and the saints descend, what will take place with the
wicked dead? Rev. 20:5, first part; John 5:28, 29.
NoTE.—The millennial period is marked at both its beginning and its close
by a resurrection. The righteous dead are raised at the beginning, the wicked
dead at the close. The millennium begins at the second coming of the Lord.
There are two resurrections, as taught by our Lord—the resurrection of
life, and that of condemnation. They who come up in the first are "blessed
and holy" and "reign with Him a thousand years." "But the rest of the dead
lived not again until the thousand years were finished." This places the res-
urrection of the wicked at the close of the millennium. And they are described
as going up against the beloved city.
13.
What did John see descending from heaven? Where did it rest?
Rev. 21:2; compare 20:9; Zech. 14:4.
NOTE.—"After the judgment of the wicked dead had been finished, at the
end of the one thousand years, Jesus left the city, and the saints and a train
of the angelic host followed Him. Jesus descended upon a great mountain,
which as soon as His feet touched it, parted asunder, and became a mighty
plain. Then we looked up and saw the great and beautiful city, with twelve
foundations, and twelve gates, three on each side, and an angel at each gate.
We cried out, 'The city ! the great city ! it is coming down from God out of
heaven !' And it came down in all its splendor and dazzling glory, and settled
in the mighty plain which Jesus had prepared for
it."—"EarlyWritings,"p.291.
14.
As circumstances loose Satan, what mighty effort will he make
among the wicked? Rev. 20:7, 8.
NOTE.—"Satan- succeeds in deceiving them, and all immediately begin to
prepare themselves for battle. There are many skillful men in that vast army,
and they construct all kinds of implements of war. Then with Satan at their
head, the multitude move on. Kings and warriors follow close after Satan, and
the multitude follow after in companies. Each company has its leader, and
order is observed as they march over the broken surface of the earth to the
holy city. Jesus closes the gates of the city, and this vast army surround it,
and place themselves in battle array, expecting a fierce conflict."—Id., p. 293.
15.
What will be the outcome of this final conflict? Rev. 20:9; Mal.
4:1, 3.
16.
What does the fire that devours the wicked do to the earth? What
promise is connected with this description? Rev. 20:9; compare with
2 Peter 3:12, 13; Isa. 65:17-19.
17.
What comforting declaration did John then hear? Rev. 21:3-5.
[5
]
TEACHING OUTLINE
I.
THE MILLENNIUM means one thousand years.
II. EVENTS MARKING THE BEGINNING OF THE MILLENNIUM
1.
The resurrection of the righteous marks the beginning of the millen-
nium. Rev. 20:6.
2.
This resurrection and Christ's coming are simultaneous. 1 Thess. 4:
16, 17.
3.
Those living righteous ascend with them. 1 Thess. 4:17; 1 Cor. 15:
51-54.
4.
The wicked are destroyed. 2 Thess. 2:8; Ps. 37:9-11.
S. The earth is laid waste and Satan imprisoned one thousand years. Jer.
4:23-27; Rev. 16:18, 20; 20:1-3.
III. EVENTS DURING THE MILLENNIUM
1.
The executive judgment takes place during the one thousand years.
Rev. 20:4; 1 Cor. 6:2, 3.
2.
Men will be judged and sentenced according to their works. Rev. 20:
12, 13.
IV. EVENTS MARKING THE CLOSE OF THE ONE THOUSAND YEARS
1.
The wicked dead will be raised and Satan loosed. Rev. 20:5, first part ;
John 5:28, 29.
2.
The holy city will descend. Rev. 21:2, 20.
3.
Evil and evildoers will be destroyed, and never again exist. Rev. 20:9;
Mal. 4:1, 3 ; Isa. 65:17-19.
4.
A new heaven and new earth will come forth. Rev. 21:3-5.
Lesson 2 for April 10, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY:
Place a check mark in the proper snare.
SUNDAY
I MONDAY I TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY THURSDAY I FRIDAY
SABBATH
Inheritance of the Saints
MEMORY VERSE: "Thou, 0 Tower of the flock, the stronghold of the daughter
of Zion, unto Thee shall it come, even the first dominion; the kingdom shall come
to the daughter of Jerusalem." Micah 4:8.
STUDY KELP: "Our Day in the Light of Prophecy," pp. 361-370.
MAN'S INHERITANCE LOST
1.
To whom did God at the first give the earth for an inheritance?
What shows that this gift did not carry with it complete ownership?
Ps. 115:16; 24:1.
2.
After man sinned and forfeited his home, who laid claim to the
earth? With what right could this claim be made? Luke 4:5-7; Dan. 4:17.
NOTE.—"When Satan declared to Christ, The kingdom and glory of the
world are delivered unto me, and to whomsoever I will
I
give it, he stated what
[ 6 ]
was true only in part, and he declared it to serve his own purpose of deception.
Satan's dominion was that wrested from Adam, but Adam was the vicegerent
of the Creator. His was not an independent rule. The earth i1 God's, and He
has committed all things to His Son. Adam was to reign subject to Christ.
When Adam betrayed his sovereignty into Satan's hands, Christ still remained
the rightful King."—"The
Desire of Ages,"
p. 129.
3.
Before Adam and Eve were driven from Eden because of sin, what
promise was made to them? Gen. 3:15.
NoTE.—By the promise that the head of the serpent should be bruised, the
sinful pair must have understood that ultimate deliverance from their tempter
would come. This deliverance was to come through the Seed of the woman—
that is, Christ. No doubt there was opened to Adam's mind more fully the
plan of redemption and the final restoration.
"To man the first intimation of redemption was communicated in the sen-
tence pronounced upon Satan in the garden'.. . . This sentence, uttered in the
hearing of our first parents, was to them a promise. While it foretold war
between man and Satan, it declared that the power of the great adversary
would finally be
broken."—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"
pp. 65, 66.
THE PROMISE OF THE RESTORATION
4.
What assuring prediction of the restoration was given through the
prophet Micah? Micah 4:8.
NOTE.—"The first dominion," here referred to, is that of Eden. It will come
to the daughter of Zion—the church of God. The purposes of God know no
failure ; they will all ultimately be fulfilled. The dominion has been tempo-
rarily lost, but it will be restored through Christ; and the ages will roll on
through eternity as if rebellion had not risen up.
"At his creation, Adam was placed in dominion over the earth. But by
yielding to temptation, he was brought under the power of Satan. 'Of whom
a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.' When man became
Satan's captive, the dominion which he held, passed to his conqueror. Thus
Satan became 'the god of this world.' He had usurped that dominion over the
earth which had been originally given to Adam. But Christ, by His sacrifice
paying the penalty of sin, would not only redeem man, but recover the domin-
ion which he had forfeited. All that was lost by the first Adam will be restored
by the second. Says the prophet, '0 Tower of the flock, the stronghold of the
daughter of Zion, unto Thee shall it come, even the first dominion.'
"—Id.,
p. 67.
5.
What was promised to Abraham? How much did this promise in-
clude? Gen. 13:14, 15; Rom. 4:13.
NOTE.—This is a promise of possessing not only Canaan, a narrow strip of
country on the eastern shore of the Great Sea, but an eternal inheritance in
the whole earth; for the apostle said Abraham was the "heir of the world::
6.
Who will share in the promise made to Abraham? Dan. 7:27;
Gal. 3:29.
7.
What shows Abraham's relation to this possession during his life-
time? What.was his ultimate expectation? Acts 7:2-5; Heb. 11:8-10.
NoTE.—Abraham did not expect an immediate inheritance in the earthly
Canaan, but looked for a future, eternal possession. If men today understood
[7)
these promises, there would not be such importance attached to the present-
day rebuilding of Jerusalem and reclaiming the Holy Land.
8.
As David sat securely on ,the throne of Israel, what did he consider
himself to be? Ps. 39:12.
NoTE.—The kingdom of Israel was at the height of its power, and had its
greatest extent of territory during the reign of David; yet he knew himself to
be a "stranger" and a "sojourner" in the land. He looked forward to the earth
made new for his eternal inheritance.
9.
What conditional promise was made to the inhabitants of Jeru-
salem? What warning was given? Jer. 17:24-27.
NOTE.-"Of
surpassing beauty and unrivaled splendor was the palatial
building which Solomon and his associates erected for God and His worship.
. . . Had Israel remained true to God, this glorious building would have stood
forever, a perpetual sign of God's especial favor to His chosen people."—
"Prophets and Kings,"
pp. 36-46.
10.
Until what event is the kingdom overturned? What illustration is
used to show it will not be re-established? Ezek. 21:26, 27; Jer. 19:1, 10, 11.
NorE.—The diadem was removed from the head of Zedekiah when he was
taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar. After that the kingdom was ruled by three
successive Gentile nations,—Persia, Grecia, Rome,-=--the Romans completing
the third overturning until "He come whose right it is." In God's plan, the
kingdom will not be re-established until Jesus, the "Seed," shall come the
second time.
THE RESTORATION OF THE KINGDOM AND DOMINION
11.
What must first take place before Israel will be brought into their
land? Ezek. 37:12; Isa. 26:19.
12.
Through whom will the throne of David be eternally re-estab-
lished? At what time? Luke 1:31-33; Matt. 25:31.
13.
At what time will the first dominion, lost by Adam. be restored to
the redeemed? Rev. 21:1-5, 7.
NorE.—In last week's lesson, it was seen that Christ will reign a thousand
years with the saints in heaven before the earth is purified by fire and recre-
ated. Rev. 20:6; 2 Peter 3:10-13. We must, therefore, conclude that the
promise made to Abraham that he would be the "heir of the world" will not
reach its complete fulfillment until after the millennium.
14.
Where will the righteous finally be recompensed? Prov. 11:31;
Matt. 5:5.
15.
How many are included in the promise made to Abraham? Gen.
12:1-3; Gal. 3:29.
NoTE.—When Abraham was called from his homeland and promised an
inheritance, it was said, "In thee shall
all
families of the earth be blessed." This
blessed promise was for
all
nations, but made possible only through faith in
Christ.
16.
How do we know that the seed according to the flesh are not nec-
essarily the children of Abraham? Rom. 9:8; John 8:39.
i8)
17. When all nations are gathered before Jesus, what blessed invi-
tation will be given to the righteous? Matt. 25:31-34.
TEACHING OUTLINE
I.
MAN'S INHERITANCE LOST
1.
God entrusted the earth to man, as a provisional inheritance. Ps. 115:
16; 24:1.
2.
Man fell, and his inheritance was claimed by Satan. Luke 4:5-7.
3.
Before man left Eden God promised redemption and eventual resto-
ration. Gen. 3:15.
II.
THE PROMISE OF THE RESTORATION
1.
Micah predicts the return of the first dominion. Micah 4:8.
2.
The promise was made to Abraham's heirs, but he received it only by
faith. Gen. 13:14, 15; Heb. 11:8-10.
3.
As a people, Israel lost its inheritance until Christ's return.
III.
RESTORATION OF KINGDOM AND DOMINION
1.
In Christ, David's throne will be re-established. Luke 1:31-33.
2.
The kingdom will be restored at the close of the millennium. Rev. 21:
1-5, 7.
3.
Every righteous person will share in the inheritance of Abraham.
Gal. 3:29.
4.
"Come, ye blessed" will welcome every overcomer. Matt. 25:31-37.
Lesson 3 for April 17, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a cheek mark in the proper space.
.
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
I
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
I
SABBATH
The New Earth
MEMORY VERSE: "Eye bath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into
the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. But
God bath revealed them unto us by His Spirit." 1 Cor. 2:9, 10.
STUDY HELP: "The Great Controversy," pp. 673-678.
THE PROMISE OF A NEW EARTH
1.
What did God declare He would do after purifying the earth by
fire? Rev. 21:5; 2 Peter 3:12, 13.
2.
What promise did Peter doubtless have in mind when he said,
"According to His promise"? Verse 13; Isa. 65:17, 18.
3.
When the earth is made new, what did the prophet Isaiah declare
would be no more? Isa. 65:19; 33:24.
THE REALITY OF THE WORLD TO COME
4.
What will the inhabitants of the new earth build? Isa. 65:21, first
part.
NOTE.—"In the earth made new, the redeemed will engage in the occupa-
tions and pleasures that brought happiness to Adam and Eve in the beginning.
1
9
}
The Eden life will be lived, the life in garden and field. . . . There every power
will be developed, every capability increased. The grandest enterprises will be
carried forward, the loftiest aspirations will be reached, the highest ambitions
realized. And still there will appear new heights to surmount, new wonders to
admire, new truths to comprehend, fresh objects of study to call forth the
powers of body and mind and
soul."—"Prophets and Kings,"
pp. 730, 731.
5.
What assurance is given that parents and children of this world
will be united in the next? Isa. 65:23, last part.
6.
What will be one of the occupations of the new earth? Verse 21,
last part.
NoTE.—Real life is here pictured of the world to come. The inhabitants
will plant vineyards and eat the fruit—fruit untouched by blight. Senses more
keen than those of youth today will enjoy the luscious, fruits of the new crea-
tion. By dwelling on the realities of the promised inheritance, by meditating
on these pen pictures of the life to come, the sin-blighted, transitory things of
this present world will lose their attraction, and our affections will be fixed
on our heavenly heritage.
7.
With what is man's future life compared? What will a man derive
from the works of his hands? Isa. 65:22, second part.
NoTE.—The life of a tree is an apt earthly illustration of man's future im-
mortal state. Count the rings, each representing a year's growth, of a giant
Sequoia, or redwood, tree. Beginning with the inner rings of the tree's heart,
you may count its age a hundred, a thousand, two thousand, three thousand,
four thousand, years; yes, and even further back beyond the days of Abraham.
And think, even "as the days of a tree are the days of My people" ! Perhaps
God has preserved these noble, stately trees, surviving many generations and
still living on, that we may have some conception of the eternal life to come.
8.
How does the prophet Ezekiel support the fact of a literal, material
resurrection from the dead? Ezek. 37:11-14; Isa. 26:19.
NOTE.—The popular trend in religious thought is to suppose that the res-
urrection consists of only a spiritual survival of the body. But this robs the
future life of its reality. Ezekiel pictures the resurrection as literal, in which
the body is composed of bones, sinews, flesh, breath. The Gospels also support
this view, for Matthew says of the saints raised at the resurrection of our Lord:
"The graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, and
came out of the graves after His resurrection, and went into the holy city, and
appeared unto many." Matthew 27:52, 53. ' As we have already seen, Isaiah
pictures the future inhabitants of the earth as building, inhabiting, planting,
and eating.
9.
Into what state of being are the dead raised? What change comes
in those living at Christ's coming? 1 Cor. 15:51-54.
NEW EARTH CONDITIONS
10.
What evidence do we have that after the resurrection men rec-
ognize their former friends? Luke 13:28.
Non..—"We all marched in and felt that we had a perfect right in the city.
Here we saw the tree of life and the throne of God. . . . We all went under
the tree, and sat down to look
at
the glory of the place, when Brethren
Fitch
[1.0j
and Stockman, who had preached the gospel of the kingdom, and whom God
had laid in the grave to save them, came up to us and asked us what we had
passed through while they were sleeping. We tried to call up our greatest trials,
but they looked so small compared with the far more exceeding and eternal
weight of glory that surrounded us, that we could not speak them out, and we
all cried out, "Alleluia, heaven is cheap enough !' and we touched our glorious
harps and made heaven's arches ring."—"Early
Writings,"
p. 17.
11.
How is the new earth described? What change will take place
in the desert and desolate places? Isa. 35:1, 2, 7.
12.
What tribute does all nature seem to offer? Isa. 55:12, 13.
13.
What is said of animal life in the new earth? What change will
come in the ferocious beast? Isa. 35:9; 11:6-9.
NOTE.—As in Eden of old, so in Eden restored, the beasts of the forest, the
cattle on a thousand hills, the fowls of the air,—all will be under the dominion
of man. In the beginning they were created for the service of man; they will
be created for the same purpose in the'earth made new. No "ravenous beast"
shall be there, and the lion will eat straw like the ox. The spirit of enmity will
have been banished from the dumb creatures even as it will have been swept
from the hearts of men. All will be harmony throughout the whole creation
of God.
14.
How does Paul express the indescribable beauties and the har-
mony in the future world? How may we comprehend something of these
things? 1 Cor. 2:9, 10.
NOTE.—"In the Bible the inheritance of the saved is called a country. There
the heavenly Shepherd leads His flock to fountains of living waters. The tree
of
life yields its fruit every month, and the leaves of the tree are for the service
of the nations. There are ever-flowing streams, clear as crystal, and beside them
waving trees cast their shadows upon the paths prepared for the ransomed of
the Lord. There the widespreading plains swell into hills of beauty, and the
mountains of God rear their lofty summits. On those peaceful plains, beside
those living streams, God's people, so long pilgrims and wanderers, shall find
a home."—"The
Great Controversy,"
p. 675.
GOD'S GIFT TO THE RIGHTEOUS
15.
What
is said to
be the gift of God? Through whom is this gift
bostowed? Rom. 6:23.
16.
On what condition will the tree of life be restored to man?
Rev.
2:7;
22:14.
TEACHING OUTLINE
I. THE PROMISE OF THE NEW EARTH
1.
God will make the earth new. Rev. 21:5; Isa. 65:17, 18.
2.
In the new earth sickness and sorrow will not exist. Isa. 33:24; 65:19.
II. REALITY OF THE WORLD TO COME
1.
The righteous will build homes and plant fields in the new earth. Isa.
65:21.
2.
Man's life there is compared to the life of a tree. Verse 22.
3.
Men will have real bodies as now, but sinless. 1 Cor. 15:51-54.
[11
M. NEW EARTH CONDITIONS
1.
Desert lands will be as gardens. Isa. 35:1, 2, 7.
2.
The wild animals will again come under the peaceful dominion of man.
Isa. 35:9; 11:6-9.
IV. GOD'S GIFT TO THE RIGHTEOUS
1.
Eternal life is God's gift to the righteous. Rom. 6:23.
2.
To the obedient only are Eden's beauties restored. Rev. 2 : 7 ;
22 : 14.
Lesson 4 for April 24, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a cheek mark in the proper space.
SUNDAY
I
MONDAY
TUESDAY (WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
I
FRIDAY
SABBATH
The New Jerusalem
MEMORY VERSE: "He carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain,
and showed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from
God." Rev. 21:10.
STUDY HELP: "The Great Controversy," pp. 674-678; "Early Writings," pp. 288,
289; "Daniel and the Revelation," pp. 837-854, latest edition.
PRESENT LOCATION OF THE NEW JERUSALEM
1.
What did Jesus say concerning His Father's house? What did He
promise to His people? John 14:2, 3.
2.
Where is the New Jerusalem at the present time? Gal. 4:26: Rev.
21:2.
NOTE.—"Christ descends upon the Mount of Olives, whence, after His res-
urrection, He ascended, and where angels repeated the promise of His return.
Says the prophet: The Lord my God shall come, and all the saints with Thee.'
`And His feet shall stand in that day upon the Mount of Olives, which is before
Jerusalem on the east, and the Mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst
thereof, . . . and there shall be a very great valley.' And the Lord shall be
king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord, and His name
one.' As the New Jerusalem, in its dazzling splendor, comes down out of
heaven, it rests upon the place purified and made ready to receive it, and
Christ, with His people and the angels, enters the holy city."—"The
Great
Controversy,"
pp. 662, 663.
3.
How long will the saints reign with Christ in heaven? Rev. 20:4, 6.
ITS DESCENT TO EARTH—A DESCRIPTION OF THE CITY
4.
After this millennial period, what did John see descending from
heaven? What was its appearance? Rev. 21:2, 10, 11.
5.
With what is the city surrounded? What are written on the twelve
foundations? Verses 12, 14.
6.
How many gates are there? Describe these. Verses 12, 13, 21.
[ 12 ]
7.
What is the size of the city? the dimensions of the walls? Verses
15-17.
NOTE.—Anciently the cities were measured by circumference, that is, by
giving the distance around the city. Reckoning eight furlongs to a mile, the
New Jerusalem would be 1,500 miles in circumference. The city is foursquare.
Dividing this distance by four, would give 375 miles to a side, which means that
the city is 375 miles square, with an area of 140,625 square miles. The im-
mensity of the New Jerusalem is beyond present-day comparison. The Greek
word translated "equal" suggests proportion, so the height, breadth, and length
of the wall are in proportion.
8.
Of what is the wall composed? the foundations? Verses 18-20.
NoTE.—Consider the beauty of this city. The foundations, walls, and gates,
and even the streets, reflect the glory of God, which far exceeds the brightness
of the sun.
9.
What is said of the city itself? Verse 18, last part; verse 21, last part.
THE THRONE AND THE RIVER OF LIFE
10.
What is the central object within the New Jerusalem? What will
be the privilege of the saints to see? Rev. 22:3, 4.
NoTE.—"They shall see His face." What blessed privilege is here bestowed
on the redeemed! Few have looked on the face of the Redeemer, who loved us
and gave His life to save. While no man has seen the Father's face, we have
come to know Him from the blessed Book, and have been led into fellowship
and communion with Him. Though having never seen our Saviour, we have
learned to love Him, to find unspeakable joy in His presence; but what will
it be to look upon the faces of both the Father and the Son radiant with im-
measurable love and indescribable glory!
11.
What proceeds from the throne of God? Verse 1.
12.
By what is the river of life spanned? How many kinds of fruit are
borne? Verse 2.
Nom—Long has man been a stranger and a pilgrim since that day he was
driven from the garden and deprived of the tree of life by the flaming sword.
Deep has been the sorrow, indescribable the suffering, dark the valley of death,
since man's disobedience to the divine command in Eden. But, through the
condescension, the suffering, and the death of our Saviour, man is now restored
to the tree of life, and begins an existence measuring with the life of God.
Jesus will lead His ransomed children along the vernal shores of the crystal-
like river, and bid His people freely eat of the life-giving fruit of the tree of life.
A CITY OF LIGHT
13.
For what does the city have no need? Verse 5.
NoTE.—There is no need of the sun's light, though the sun shines with
sevenfold brilliance. Isa. 30:26. And there will be no night there. What a
past that word
night
symbolizes! We think of the nights of sin, of suffering,
of crime, of fear—such are no more.
14.
Who will walk in the light of the city? Whose glory and honor
will be brought into it? Rev. 21:24.
{131
15.
Who and what are excluded from this inheritance? Verse 27: 22:15.
16.
Upon whom is a blessing pronounced? Rev. 22:14.
17.
What urgent invitation is now being given? By whom? Verse 17.
NOTE.-The Spirit is wooing hearts away from sin and from the things of
time, and saying, "Come." The beautiful city, adorned as a bride, is beckoning
the earth-absorbed, burdened with care or captivated with transient joys, and
saying, "Come." And may those who hear, who are responding, pass on from
lip to lip the gracious invitation, "Come." And, finally, whosoever will, let
him take the water of life freely, without cost. That "whosoever" is all in-
clusive. It excludes no one. To every soul is extended the urgent invitation to
make ready and share the joys and the inheritance provided for the redeemed.
TEACHING OUTLINE
I. PRESENT LOCATION OF THE NEW JERUSALEM
1.
Christ is preparing His people homes therein. John 14:2, 3.
2.
The city is now in heaven. Gal. 4:26; Rev. 21:2.
3.
The saints will dwell above a thousand years. Rev. 20:4, 6.
II. ITS DESCENT TO EARTH-A DESCRIPTION OF THE CITY
1.
The city descends. Rev. 21:2, 10, 11.
2.
Its walls and gates described. Verses 12-14, 21.
3.
The dimensions of the city. Verses 15-17.
4.
A city of pure gold. Verses 18, 21.
III. THE THRONE AND THE RIVER OF LIFE
1.
Proceeding from God's throne is the river of life. Rev. 22:1-4.
2.
It is spanned by the tree of life. Verse 2.
IV. A CITY OF LIGHT
1.
The Lord gives light to the city. Verse 5.
2.
The nations of the redeemed will walk in the city's light. Rev. 21:24.
3.
All evil and darkness will be excluded forever. Verse 27; 22:15.
4.
All the obedient may enjoy its blessings. Rev. 22:14,
Lesson 5 for May 1, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a check mark in the proper space.
SUNDAY
I
MONDAY
I
TUESDAY
I
WEDNESDAY
I
THURSDAY
I
FRIDAY
' I
SABBATH
The Prophecy of Daniel 7
MEMORY VERSE: "The kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom
under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High,
whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey
Him." Dan. 7:27.
STUDY HELPS: "Daniel and the Revelation," pp. 123-141; "Beacon Lights of
Prophecy" (Spicer), pp.
53
-
67.
THE VISION OF DANIEL
1. When was the vision of Daniel 7 given? Who was Belshazzar?
Dan. 7:1.
{
14]
NOTE.—The noted Assyriologist, Dr. Daugerty, in his book, "Nabonidus
and Belshazzar," says: "There are facts which make it extremely probable
that Nabonidus married a daughter of Nebuchadnezzar, and that therefore
Belshazzar was a grandson of the great king."
It is not known with exactness when Belshazzar began to reign conjointly
with his father Nabondaius, or Nabonidus; but it was most likely about 540
or 541 B. c. This vision was given Daniel in the first year of Belshazzar's reign.
2.
What was Daniel first shown in vision? Verses 2, 3.
3.
What do "winds" represent? "waters"? Jer. 25:31-33; Rev. 17:15.
NOTE.—From out of great wars among peoples and nations of Asia and
Europe, there arose four great kingdoms. The surging, turbulent waters of
the Great Sea are a fit symbol of those mighty conflicts during which nations
fell and new kingdoms formed.
THE INTERPRETATION OF THE DREAM
4.
What are the four beasts said to represent? Dan. 7:17, 23.
NOTE.—As seen by verse 23, the word "king" here denotes a kingdom; so
these four beasts are symbols of four great kingdoms.
5.
Describe the first beast.- In what way is it a fitting symbol of
Babylon? Verse 4; Hab. 1:6-8.
NoTE.—Interpreting the dream of Daniel 2,
it
was explained to Nebuchad-
nezzar that his was the first kingdom in that prophecy, and was represented
by the head of gold. As gold is the most valuable of metals, so the lion is the
king of beasts, and represents Babylon. This mighty kingdom became inde-
pendent of Assyria at the fall of Nineveh, reached its greatness under Nebu-
chadnezzar, declined, and fell in 538 B. C. The wings denoted speed of conquest ;
the plucking of the wings signified the loss of that spirit of conquest; and the
man's heart given it represented the decline .of its warlike character.
6.
How are the Medes and Persians symbolized? Dan. 7:5.
NOTE.—The three ribs in the mouth of the bear represent the provinces
especially oppressed—Babylon, Lydia, Egypt. The Persians were overthrown
by Grecia in 331 B. C.
7.
By what is Grecia symbolized? What do the four heads represent?
Verse 6.
NoTE.—The fleet-footed leopard is a fit symbol of the Grecian, or Mace-
donian, Empire under Alexander the Great. The added symbol of the four
wings, indicates the speedy conquest of Persia. Within two years (333-331
B. c.) the kingdom of the Persians was overthrown. But upon the death of
Alexander (323), the empire soon was divided among his generals,—Cassander,
Lysimachus, Seleucus, Ptolemy,—indicated by the four heads of the leopard.
8.
What nation succeeded Grecia? Describe the symbol? Verse 7.
NOTE.—"This is allowed, on all hands, to be the Roman Empire. It was
dreadful, terrible, and exceeding strong; . . . and became in effect, what the
Roman writers delight to call it, the empire of the whole world."—:Dr.
Adam
Clarke.
The fate of the Greeks was decided at the Battle of Pydna, 168 B. c. Hence-
forth the iron monarchy of Rome continued until its dissolution in 476 A. D.
[15]
"Here is the same hard, crushing empire that was represented by the iron
of Nebuchadnezzar's image in the second chapter. Rome marched straight
onward in the way foretold. . . . Step by step, as these things were taking
place, those who knew the Scriptures saw prophecy fulfilling. Hippolytus, who
lived in Rome in the late second and early third century, wrote: 'Rejoice,
blessed Daniel ! thou hast not been in error: all these things have come to pass.
. . . Already the iron rules; already it subdues and breaks all in pieces.'-
`Ante-Nicene Fathers,' Vol. V, p.
210."-"Beacon Lights of Prophecy,"
p. 58.
A DIVIDED KINGDOM
9.
What indicated that this fourth kingdom would be divided? Dan.
7:7, 24.
10.
What did the ten horns represent? During what period were these
divisions formed? Verse 24.
NOTE.-Before the fall of Rome in 476 A. D., barbarian tribes from the north
and east invaded Europe and North Africa, and eventually established them-
selves in the territory of Western Rome. These nations were: the Vandals,
Visigoths, Suevi, Burgundians, Franks, Ostrogoths, Heruli, Alemanni, Angles,
and Saxons, and the Lombards-ten in all, represented by the ten horns.
11.
What took place among the horns? Verse 8.
NOTE.-Three were rooted up, and in their place arose a little horn. In
the next lesson will be studied the rise, character, and fall of the little horn.
GOD'S KINGDOM SUPPLANTS ALL OTHERS
12.
To whom will the kingdom ultimately be given? Verse 27.
NOTE.-These earthly kingdoms are temporary, their glory transitory, but
to the saints will be given the kingdom which will endure forever.
TEACHING OUTLINE
I. A VISION GIVEN TO THE PROPHET
1.
Four beasts appear. Dan. 7:2, 3.
2.
Winds represent war, strife; waters represent people.
Jer.
25:31-33;
Rev. 17:15.
II. DREAM AND INTERPRETATION
1.
The beasts represent kings or kingdoms. Dan. 7:17, 23.
2.
The lion represented Babylon. Verse 4.
3.
The bear, Medo-Persia. Verse 5.
4.
The leopard beast, Grecia. Verse 6.
5.
The nondescript beast symbolized Rome. Verse 7.
III.
A DIVIDED KINGDOM
1.
The last kingdom would have ten divisions. Verses 7, 24.
2.
The ten horns symbolized the ten kingdoms into which Rome was
divided. Verse 24.
3.
A little horn rooted up three others. Verse 8.
IV. GOD'S KINGDOM WILL SUPPLANT ALL OTHERS
1. The dominion will be given to the saints. Verse 27.
[16)
Lesson 6 for May 8, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a check mark in the proper space.
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY I SABBATH
The Little-Horn Power
MEMORY VERSE: "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake:
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matt. 5:10.
STUDY HELPS: "Daniel and the Revelation," pp. 142-162; "Beacon Lights of
Prophecy," pp. 69-83.
THE RISE OF THE LITTLE HORN
1.
What is said of an antichristian power arising among the divi-
sions of the Roman Empire? Dan. 7:25.
2.
What symbol is used to represent this power? How many king-
doms were overthrown to make a place for it? Verses 8, 20.
NorE.—The fourth beast was "diverse from all the beasts [lion, bear, leop-
ard] that were before [preceding] it." The three kingdoms usually listed as
giving place to the papacy were the Heruli (493
A.
D.), the Vandals (534
A. D.),
and the Ostrogoths (538
A.
D.). At that time the Goths were crushingly de-
feated, and the papacy was freed from their control. The Ostrogoths were
overthrown as a nation in 552
A. D.
The three kingdoms destroyed were Arian
by faith, and opposed to the Roman Catholic Church. The deliverance of the
papacy from these opposing powers made way for her supremacy in the West.
3.
Against whom was the little-horn power to speak? What did Paul
say of such a system? Verse 25; 2 Thess. 2:3, 4.
NorE.—These scriptures are plainly descriptive of a blasphemous power.
The apostle makes it plain that following a falling away in the church, the man
of sin would arise claiming to be God on earth. "He as God sitteth in the
temple of God, showing himself that he is God."
THE LITTLE HORN A PERSECUTING POWER
4.
Who has notably claimed during many centuries the prerogatives
of God?
NoTEs.—The following extracts are taken from Ferraris' Ecclesiastical Dic-
tionary (Roman Catholic), article, "The Pope":
"The Pope is of so great dignity and so exalted that he is not a mere man,
but as it were God, and the vicar of God."
"The Pope is as it were God on earth, sole sovereign of the faithful of
Christ, chief king of kings, haVing plenitude of power, to whom has been
entrusted by the omnipotent God direction not only of the earthly but also
of the heavenly kingdom."
The following is taken from a papal letter: "We hold on this earth the
place of God Almighty."—Pope
Leo XIII, in an encyclical letter dated June
20, 1894, "The Great Encyclical Letters of Leo XIII,"
p. 304.
5.
What did the little-horn power think himself able to do? Dan. 7:25.
NOTE.—"The
Pope is of so great authority and power that he can modify,
[ 17 )
explain, or interpret even divine laws." "The Pope can modify divine law,
since his power is not of man but of God, and he acts as vicegerent of God
upon earth with most ample power of binding and loosing his sheep."—
Ferraris' Ecclesiastical Dictionary, art., "The Pope."
In an old volume in the British Museum Library, published in 1545, the
following statement is attributed to Melanchthon. We copy the old English
spelling:
"He changeth the tymes and lawes that any of the sixe worke days com-
manded of God will make them unholy and idle dayes when he lyste, or of
their owne holy dayes abolished make worke dayes agen, or when they changed
ye Saterday into Sondaye. . . . They have changed God
's lawes and turned
them into their owne tradicions to be kept above God's precepts."—"Exposi-
cion
of Daniel the Prophete, Gathered out of Philipp Melanchthon, Johan
Ecolampadius, Etc.," by George Joye, 1545,
p. 119.
6.
How were the saints to fare under this intolerant system? Verse
25; Matt. 24:21, 22.
NOTE.—"After the signal of open martyrdom had been given in the Canons
of Orleans, there followed the extirpation of the Albigenses under the form of
a crusade, the establishment of the Inquisition, the cruel attempts to extinguish
the Waldenses, the martyrdoms of the Lollards, the cruel wars to exterminate
the Bohemians, the burning of Huss and Jerome, and multitudes of other
confessors, before the Reformation ; and afterwards
, the ferocious cruelties
practiced in the Netherlands, the martyrdoms of Queen Mary's reign, the
extinction by fire and sword of the Reformation in Spain and Italy, by fraud
and open persecution in Poland, the Massacre of Bartholomew, the persecu-
tion of the Huguenots by the League, the extirpation of the Vaudois, and all
the cruelties and prejudices connected with the revocation of the Edict of
Nantes. These are the more open and conspicuous facts which explain the
prophecy, besides the slow and secret murders of the holy tribunal of the In-
quisition."—"The
First Two Visions of Daniel," Rev. T. R. Birks, M. A., Lon-
don, 1845,
pp. 248, 249.
7.
What do Roman Catholics admit concerning persecution?
ANSWER.—"The church has persecuted. Only a tyro in church history will
deny that. . . . One hundred and fifty years after Constantine the Donatists
were persecuted, and sometimes put to death. . . . Protestants were perse-
cuted in France and Spain with the full approval of the church authorities.
We have always defended the persecution of the Huguenots, and the Spanish
Inquisition. Wherever and whenever there is honest Catholicity, there will
be a clear distinction drawn between truth and error, and Catholicity and all
forms of heresy. When she thinks it good to use physical force, she will use
it. . . . But will the Catholic Church give bond that she will not persecute at
all? Will she guarantee absolute freedom and equality of all churches and all
faiths? The Catholic Church gives no bonds for her good behavior."—The
Western Watchman (R. C.), Dec. 24, 1908.
"There can be no doubt, therefore, that the church claimed the right to use
physical coercion against formal apostates. . . . She adapts her discipline to
the times and circumstances in order that it may fulfill its salutary purpose.
Her own children are not punished by fines, imprisonment, or other temporal
punishments, but by spiritual pains and penalties, and heretics are treated as
she treated pagans."—The
Catholic Encyclopedia, Vol. XI, p. 703, art, "Per-
secution."
1'
18
1
(It is only fair to state that the Catholic Encyclopedia, while admitting the
part that the Roman Catholic Church played in persecuting those who differed
from her, defends her course both because of her claimed authority and respon-
sibility as God's only representative on earth, but on the ground that Prot-
estants and pagans did likewise persecute, and that it was a custom of the time.)
8.
How long was the papal supremacy to continue? What is a Bib-
lical "time"? Dan. 7:25; 11:13, margin.
NOTE.—A time is a Jewish year of 360 days ; times, two years, or 720 days ;
and a half, 180 days—all making 1260 prophetic days. A day in prophecy
symbolizes a literal year (Ezek. 4:6; Num. 14:34), so papal supremacy was
to continue for 1260 literal years. For further study see Revelation 12:14, 6;
11:3; 13:5. A Jewish month had thirty days.
9.
When did this time period of 1260 years begin? When did it end?
Answer: 538-1798 A.
D.
NoTE.—In 538 the last of the three kingdoms was crushingly defeated, and
never again controlled the affairs of the church. Under the declaration of
Justinian in 533, the right of the Bishop, of Rome to exercise the prerogative
of headship over all the churches was recognized. The Catholics elected their
own popes, endorsed by the Eastern emperor. Then began that period of
supremacy, which came to an •end in 1798 by the imprisonment of the pope.
"General Berthier, by orders of the French government, led his forces into
Rome and proclaimed a republic. The pope (Pius VI) was dragged into exile,
where he died. The whole papal government was dissolved. Canon Trevor
says: 'The papacy was extinct: not a vestige of its existence remained; and
among all the Roman Catholic powers not a finger was stirred in its defense.
The Eternal City had no longer prince or pontiff; its bishop was a dying
captive in foreign lands; and the decree was already announced that no suc-
cessor would be allowed in his place.'—`Rome and Its Papal Rulers,' p. 440."
—"Beacon Lights of Praphecy,"
pp. 81, 82.
ALL POWER AND JUDGMENT DELEGATED TO CHRIST
10.
In contrast with this oppression, what did the prophet next be-
hold? Dan. 7:9, 10.
.NoTE.—The casting down of thrones is better rendered "till the thrones
were placed." God the Father sits upon the throne of judgment, the books are
opened, and the judgment begins.'
11.
Who is escorted to this judgment scene? Verse 13.
NoTE.—Daniel was permitted to lOok far into the future, past the incar-
nation, when the Son of God became also the "Son of man," to the time He
would take part in the investigative judgment, which began in 1844.
12.
What was given to the Son of man? Verso 14.
13.
On completion of the investigative judgment, with whom does
the Son share His kingdom? Verse 27; Rom. 8:17.
TEACHING OUTLINE
I.
THE RISE OF THE LITTLE HORN
1.
The little horn arose with arrogant claims to authority. Dan.
7:24,
25.
2.
He would speak against God and attempt to change His law. Dan.
7:25 ; 2 Thess. 2:3, 4.
{193
II. THE LITTLE HORN A PERSECUTING POWER
1.
He has claimed God's prerogatives. Dan. 7:25.
2.
He would wear out the saints of God. Dan. 7:25; Matt. 24:21, 22.
3.
The little horn admits persecuting.
4.
The time of his power is limited. Dan. 7:25, last clause.
III. ALL POWER AND JUDGMENT DELEGATED
TO
CHRIST
1.
The judgment intervenes to end papal power. Dan. 7:9, 10.
2.
Christ will be brought before the Ancient of Days. Verse 13.
3.
To Him will be given the kingdom. Verse 14.
4.
He will reign with His saints forever. Verse 27; Rom. 8:17.
Lesson 7 for May 15, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY:
Place a check mark in the proper space.
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY I
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
I
FRIDAY
SABBATH
The Christian Church in Prophecy
MEMORY VERSE: "The dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to male
war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have
the testimony of Jesus Christ." Rev. 12:17.
STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," chapters 4-11; "Daniel and the Reve-
lation," pp. 545-557.
A WOMAN CLOTHED WITH THE SUN
1.
Describe the woman John saw in vision. Rev. 12:1.
2.
Of what is woman often a symbol in the Scriptures? Isa. 62:1, 5;
Jer. 31:21.
NoTE.—A virtuous woman in the Scriptures represents the true church; a
lewd woman is the symbol of a false church. From a study of the experience
of the woman in Revelation 12, it will be seen that she represents the Chris-
taM church.
3.
At what time in the experience of the Christian church is she here
introduced? Rev. 12:1.
NoTE.—The woman is clothed with the sun—the Sun of Righteousness. The
most glorious time in the past history of the church was when our Saviour
was present in human form. The twelve stars suggest the twelve apostles as
leaders in the church. The moon, casting a borrowed ray, is a fit symbol of
the typical system, fulfilled and placed under the feet of the woman.
4.
Who was the man child born of the woman? Verses 2, 5; Ps. 2:7-9.
NOTE.—This can refer to no other than the Son of God. He was born
among His people, of a virgin; He was caught up to heaven, at the time of
His ascension; and He it is who will rule the nations with a rod of iron, and
break them in pieces as a potter's vessel.
[ 20 ]
5.
What prophecy did Moses record concerning Christ? What New
Testament application was made of this prediction? Deut. 18:15, 19;
Acts 3:20-22.
6.
Who stood ready to destroy the child as soon as it was born? Rev.
12:3, 4; compare Matt. 2:13, 16.
NoTE.—The dragon is said to be Satan. Rev. 12:9. But Satan works not
in the open, but through earthly agencies. It was Herod who sought the life
of Jesus. This ruler was vested with the authority of Rome; therefore, at that
time the dragon, Satan, must have reference to pagan Rome.
THE CHURCH UNDER PERSECUTION
7.
Against whom did the dragon vent his wrath? Rev. 12:13.
NoTE.—As Christianity was preached with such effectiveness in the early
centuries, it was bitterly opposed by Jew and pagan. Persecution broke out
at Jerusalem, and later in many places in the pagan Roman Empire. We have
only to recall the persecutions under Nero, Domitian, Diocletian, and other
of the Roman emperors.
8.
What period is twice mentioned during which the church will be
persecuted? Verses 6, 14; compare Dan. 7:25.
NOTE.—This is the period of papal supremacy, the 1260 years (538-1798)
of which we studied last week. While pagans oppressed the church of God,
the Church of Rome surpassed them in cruel persecutions.
9.
Where was the true church during the Dark Ages? Rev. 12:14.
NoTE.—There has been much discussion concerning apostolic succession.
The Church of Rome claims that she can trace.her popes back to Peter the
apostle. The Church of England claims her bishops can be reckoned as com-
ing down from apostolic days. But one thing is made clear by this prophecy.
The true church was in seclusion during the 1260 years of papal supremacy.
She was in desert places, in mountain fastnesses, in sparsely inhabited areas.
She certainly was not the church reigning over the kings of Europe—the church
living gorgeously, sumptuously, and persecuting.
10.
What did the dragon attempt to do? Verse 15.
11.
In what way was the church helped? Verse 16, first part.
NoTE.—The Protestant Reformation changed the attitude of earthly rulers
toward the church, so that persecution was checked. New lands were discov-
ered and opened for colonization, to which many of the oppressed fled for
freedom. Remarkable providences also were manifested in the deliverance
of reformed peoples.
12.
Who were some of the leaders in the Reformation?
ANSWER.—Among the Reformers were Wycliffe, Huss, Jerome, Luther,
Melanchthon, Zwingle, Calvin, etc.
13.
What was the basis of Protestant doctrine in Germany and other
European countries? Answer: The Bible. Eph. 2:8.
NOTE.—We take the following from the Protest of the German Princes:
"There is no sure doctrine but such as is conformable to the word of God.
. . . The Lord forbids the teaching of any other doctrine. . . . The Holy
Scriptures ought to be explained by other and clearer texts; . . . this holy
[21
7
Book is, in all things necessary for the Christian, easy of understanding, and
calculated to scatter the darkness. We are resolved, with the grace of God, to
maintain the pure and exclusive preaching of His only word, such as it is
contained in the Biblical books of the Old and New Testaments, without add-
ing anything thereto that may be contrary to it. This word is the only truth;
it is the sure rule of all doctrine and of all life, and can never fail or deceive
us."—Cited in "The Great Controversy,"
p. 203.
14.
What made the study of the Bible possible?
NoTE.—The Scriptures were formerly limited in number and often locked
up in the ancient languages, so that the common people had not access to the
Sacred Word. But when the Reformation got under way, translations were
made by such men as Wycliffe and Luther, and these were multiplied in the
language of the people. Printing with movable type made it possible greatly
to multiply copies and to reduce the price. This placed the Bible within the
reach of even the poorest to obtain the blessed Book. Later, Bible societies pro-
duced the Bible or parts in hundreds of tongues, and distributed millions of
copies.
WROTH WITH THE REMNANT CHURCH
15.
With whom was the dragon especially angry? Verse 17.
NOTE.—The remnant people will feel the wrath of the great adversary.
Especially will this be true because the time is short. He goes to make war—
perhaps more fiercely than at any time in earth's history. But ultimate vic-
tory is assured the people of God.
16.
Name two characteristics of the remnant church. Verse 17, last
part; Rev. 19:10; 1 Cor. 1:6-9; Rev. 14:12.
17.
Why was the gift of prophecy at times withdrawn? Lam. 2:9; last
part; 1 Sam. 3:1.
NorE.—During the great apostasy of the Christian church there were only
rare manifestations of the gift of prophecy. It is quite remarkable that the
remnant church which keeps all the commandments should at the same time
have the revelations of the Spirit.
TEACHING OUTLINE
I. A WOMAN CLAD WITH THE SUN
1.
The woman of Revelation 12:1 represents the true church of God.
Isa. 62:1, 5; Jer. 31:21.
2.
The man child typifies Christ. Rev. 12:2, 5.
3.
The dragon stood ready to devour the child. Verses 3, 4; compare with
Matt. 2:13; 16.
II. THE CHURCH UNDER PERSECUTION
1.
The dragon would vent his wrath against the church. Rev. 12:13.
2.
She would be delivered into his hands for 1260 years. Verses 6, 14.
3.
The oppressed church was helped by the earth. Verse 16.
4.
The Reformation brought liberty to the church.
III. WROTH WITH THE REMNANT CHURCH
1.
The remnant will again feel the wrath of the dragon. Verse 17, first part.
2.
The remnant keep the commandments of God,. and have the spirit of
prophecy. Verse 17, last part; Rev. 19:10; 1 Cor. 1:6-8.
( 22 )
Lesson 8 for May 22, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a check mark in the proper space.
SUNDAY I MONDAY
TUESDAY WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY
SABBATH
The Prophecy of Revelation 13
MEMORY VERSE: "All that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose name
-
.
are not
written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the
world." Rev. 13:8.
STUDY
HELPS: "Daniel and the Revelation," pp. 558-627; "Beacon Lights of
Prophecy," pp.
279
-
311.
THE LEOPARD BEAST
1.
Describe the first beast of Revelation 13. Verses 1, 2.
NOTE.—This is a composite symbol. It embodies the characteristics of the
lion, the bear, the leopard, and the fourth beast of Daniel 7. It is evident from
this symbol that the papacy has drawn from these ancient kingdoms some out-
standing characteristics such as her mystical teaching, infallibility, her philo-
sophical instruction, and her adopted pagan customs and ceremonies.
2.
upon what are the crowns placed, according to this prophecy?
Where have these ten kingdoms been described before? Verse 1; Dan.
7:4-8, 24.
NOTE.—In this chapter the ten crowns are on the horns, instead of on the
heads of the symbol as in the twelfth chapter, indicating that now is the period
of the ten kingdoms formed through the division of ancient Rome. We studied
concerning these in the lesson on Daniel 7.
3.
What is the character of the beast? With whom did he make war?
Rev. 13:1, last part, 5-7.
NoTE.—These verses identify the beast with the little horn of Daniel 7:25.
It is blasphemous in character, assuming the prerogatives' of God, claiming
authority over angels in heaven, as well as the right to deal with the souls of
men. Its war on the saints also marks it as the same power that wore out the
saints of the Most High.
4.
What period is mentioned as the time of its supremacy? Verse 5.
NoTE.—Forty and two months, reckoning a Jewish month to be thirty
days, amount to 1260 days—the period of 1260 years (538-1798
A. D.)
of papal
supremacy. This is the equivalent of the "time and times and the dividing
of time" given in Daniel 7:25.
THE DEADLY WOUND
5.
What is said of this beast that had drawn the sword against God's
people? What did the prophet
see
concerning one of the heads of this
beast? Rev. 13:10, 3.
NOTE.
-
1
-The heads of the beast are successive, one following the other. Rev.
17:9, 10. By several incidents during and subsequent to the French Revolu-
tion the papal head was humiliated and severely wounded: The pope was
carried prisoner to France in 1798, and no one was elected to his place for
[ 23 ]
about two years. Rich political states in Italy were temporarily taken from
the church, and the papal court was dissolved for a time. A long series of
political reverses and partial restorations continued until the union of Italy
in 1870. See note to Question 6 below.
6.
What further is said of the deadly wound? To what extent did the
restoration affect the world? Verse 3.
NoTE.—A new pope was elected in 1800. For years thereafter the history
of the Papal States and the See was checkered by conflict within and without.
The temporal sovereignty of the pope was restored by the Congress of. Vienna
in 1815, and held till the Italian revolution and the establishment of the House
of Savoy (the ruling house of Italy), in 1870, when this new state absorbed
the Papal States as a part of its territory. In recent years, since the estab-
lishment of the Fascist form of government in Italy, the temporal sovereignty
of the papacy, though greatly curtailed as compared with its former terri-
tories, has been recognized and restored with all the honors of a world power
(1929). Through all the years, though dispossessed of its claimed rights and
territories, the same assumption of authority has been maintained under which
it wore out the saints of the Most High, and thought to change times and
laws. Dan. 7:25.
A POWER PROMINENT IN THE RESTORATION
7.
About the time the first beast was going into captivity, what was
seen arising? Verse 11.
8.
From what did this beast arise? How had the other arisen?
Verses 11, 1.
NoTE.—The beasts of Daniel 7 and that of Revelation 13:1 arose out of
the sea, that is, among nations, peoples, tongues (Rev. 17:15) ; but here is a
beast arising in a new country, as yet unsettled by great'nations. Surely this
is a fit symbol of the United States of America. Its independence had been
gained and its Constitution adopted shortly before the papacy went into
captivity.
9.
What is characteristic of this government? Verse 11.
NOTE.—" 'He had two horns like a lamb.' The lamblike horns indicate
youth, innocence, and gentleness, fitly representing the character of the United
States when presented to the prophet as 'coming up' in 1798. . . .. Republi-
canism and Protestantism became the fundamental principles of the nation.
These principles are the secret of its power and prosperity. The oppressed
and downtrodden throughout Christendom have turned to this land with
interest and hope. Millions have sought its shores, and the United States has
arisen to a place among the most powerful nations of the earth."—"The
Great
Controversy,"
p. 441.
10.
Contrary to its appearance, how would the lamblike beast even-
tually speak? Verses 11, 13.
NOTE.—"The 'speaking' of the nation is the action of its legislative and
judicial authorities."—Id., p. 442.
11.
Of what will he make an image? Verse 14.
NOTE.—"The image is made by the two-horned beast, and is an image
to
the first beast. It is also called an image
of
the beast. Then to learn what the
[24]
image is like, and how it is to be formed, we must study the characteristics of
the beast itself,—the papacy."
"When the leading churches of the United States, uniting upon such points
of doctrine as are held by them in common, shall influence the state to enforce
their decrees and to sustain their institutions, then PrOtestant America will
have formed an image of the Roman hierarchy, and the infliction of civil
penalties upon dissenters will inevitably result."—Id., pp. 443, 445.
12.
What is given to this image? How? Verses 15-17.
NOTE.—"When our nation shall so abjure the principles of its government
as to enact a Sunday law, Protestantism will in this act join hands with popery;
it will be nothing else than giving life to the tyranny which has long been
eagerly watching its opportunity to spring again into active despotism."—
"Testimonies,"
vol. 5, p. 712.
THE MARK OF THE BEAST
13.
What is the mark of the beast? How does this differ from God's
seal, or sign, of authority? Verse 17; Ex. 31:13-17.
NOTE.—"The light we have received upon the third angel's message is the
true light. The mark of the beast is exactly what it has been proclaimed to be."
—Id.,
vol. 6, p. 17.
"The sign, or seal, of God is revealed in the observance of the seventh-day
Sabbath, the Lord's memorial of creation. 'The Lord spake unto Moses, saying,
Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye
shall keep; for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations;
that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.' Ex. 31:12, 13.
Here the Sabbath is clearly designated as a sign between God and His people.
The mark of the beast is the opposite of this,—the observance of the first day
of the week."—Id., vol. 8, p. 117.
The following is taken from a Roman- Catholic work, "An Abridgment of
the Christian Doctrine," by Rev. Henry Tuberville, D. D., p. 58:
"Ques.
How prove you that the church hath power to command feasts and
holy days?
"Ans.
By the very act of changing the Sabbath into Sunday, which Protes-
tants allow of; and therefore they fondly contradict themselves, by keeping
Sunday strictly, and breaking most other feasts commanded by the same
church."
14.
What warning message is given at this time? Rev. 14:9-11.
15.
Where will those who gain the victory over the beast and his
image and over his mark ultimately stand? Rev. 15:2.
TEACHING OUTLINE
I. THE LEOPARD BEAST
1.
This beast has the characteristics of four beasts of Daniel 7. Rev. 13:
1, 2.
2.
He warred against God and against the saints of God. Rev. 13:1
(last part), 5-7.
3.
He was supreme for 1260 years. Verse 5.
II. THE DEADLY WOUND
_ 1. One of his heads received a deadly wound. Rev. 13:10, 3.
2. When the wound is healed the world will wonder. Verse 3.
[25
7
III. A
POWER PROMINENT IN HIS RESTORATION
1.
A second beast arises from the earth. Rev. 13:11.
2.
Lamblike in appearance, he would speak as the dragon. Verse 14 (last
clause), 12, 13.
3.
He is instrumental in making the image to the beast. Verse 14.
4.
To him great power is given. Verses 15-17.
IV. THE
MARK OF THE BEAST
1.
The mark of the beast is the seal of his authority. Verse 17; Ex. 31:
13.17.
2.
God warns against the worship of the beast. Rev. 14:9-11.
3.
Those who remain steadfast will stand before God. Rev. 15:2.
Lesson 9 for May 29, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY:
Place a check mark in the proper space.
SUNDAY I MONDAY I TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
SABBATH
Modern Babylon
MEMORY VERSE: "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall over-
come them: for He is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with Him
are called, and chosen, and faithful." Rev. 17:14.
STUDY HELPS: "Daniel and the Revelation," pp. 702-707; "Beacon Lights of
Prophecy," pp. 379-385.
A SYMBOLIC WOMAN DESCRIBED
1.
Describe the appearance of the woman mentioned by the prophet
as representing Babylon. Rev. 17:3, 4.
2.
What was written on her head? Verse 5.
3.
Upon what did this woman sit? Verses 3, 1.
4.
What does a "woman" symbolize? What is meant by the "waters"
upon which she sits? Hosea 3:1; Rev. 17:15.
NOTE.—We have seen in a former lesson that, a virtuous woman represents
the church of God. An impure woman, then, symbolizes a false church. When
Israel went after other gods and joined affinity with heathen kings, she was
called a harlot. The woman of Revelation 17:5 is called "the mother of har-
lots." She represents a false church supported by the secular powers of Europe.
Her claim to catholicity (universality) is aptly described by her sitting upon
many waters—many "peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues."
THE CHARACTER OF THE ORGANIZATION REPRESENTED
S. What constitutes spiritual adultery? James 4:4.
6. With what was the woman drunk? Rev. 17:6; compare Dan. 7:25.
[ 26 ]
7.
What is the woman said to be? Rev. 17:18.
NOTE.—HOW fitting the expression, "That great city, which reigneth over
the kings of the earth," as applied to papal Rome ! The Caesars long ruled
from the city of Rome the countries of Europe, western Asia, and north Africa.
When they vacated the imperial city for Constantinople, and the empire in
the West fell, the Bishops of Rome claimed the right to the city of Rome and
the states of Italy.
Gradually the popes extended their supremacy over the states of Europe,
until they actually enthroned and dethroned kings. Notable among these popes
were Gregory VII, Boniface VIII, and Innocent
III.
"The Catholic churches of all nations and ages have honored the See of
Rome, and, on account of its 'superior headship,' have always gloried in the
profession of their attachment to
it."—Rev. Stephen Keenan, "A Doctrinal
Catechism,"
p. 162.
8.
How is the woman supported? For what length of time? Verses
3, 12, 13.
NoTE.—The papal church has ever been supported and protected by civil
power. When one king proved unfaithful to the church, she appealed to an-
other. Many of the wars in the Middle Ages were waged directly in behalf
of the church. The ten kings and the papal hierarchy arose at about the same
time and parallel each other in history.
THE WOMAN IS BABYLON
9.
Why is the woman called Babylon the Great? Verse 5; Dan. 4:30;
2 Thess. 2:4.
NOTE.—The two cities, Babylon and Rome, have many similarities. Pride
ruled in each. They were oppressive. But perhaps the greatest parallel comes
in the false doctrines, the mysteries, common to both. Hislop, in his work
entitled "The Two Babylons," page 2, says:
"Recent discoveries in Assyria, taken in connection with the previously
well-known, but ill-understood history and mythology of the ancient world,
demonstrate that there is a vast deal more significance in the name Babylon
the Great than this. It has been known all along that popery was baptized
paganism; but God is now making it manifest, that the paganism which Rome
has baptized is, in all its essential elements,
the very paganism
which prevailed
in the ancient literal Babylon."
10.
With what was the woman decked? Rev. 17:4.
NoTE.—The description of the woman has its striking fulfillment in the
display of popes, cardinals, and priests. Where is to be seen such display of
royal colors,—purple and scarlet,—of silks, gold, pearls, diamonds, etc.? Rome
has excelled in her finery and pomp. Contrast all this with the spirit of the
meek and lowly Jesus.
11.
What does the woman hold in her hand? Verse 4.
NOTE.—The cup of her abominations is a symbol of her false doctrines,
which she has forced upon the nations under the threat of excommunication,
punishment, and death. Among these are: The pope as the vicar of the Son
of God, infallibility of the popes, the power of the priests to create Christ in
the Communion bread, the right to forgive sin, authority to change the law
of God, the See of Rome as the only true church and mistress of all others;
27
the doctrines of purgatory, indulgences, saint and image worship, celibacy of
priests, efficacy of penance and pilgrimages, immortality of the soul, eternal
torment, and many others.
12.
Of what have all nations drunk? Rev. 17:4; 18:3.
13.
What assurance of ultimate victory over Babylon is given?
Rev. 17:14.
TEACHING OUTLINE
I. A SYMBOLIC WOMAN DESCRIBED
1.
A woman who sits on a scarlet-colored beast. Rev. 17:3, 4.
2.
Her character is written on her head. Verse 5.
3.
She rules over nations, peoples, and tongues. Verse 15.
II. THE CHARACTER OF THE ORGANIZATION REPRESENTED
1.
To love the world is spiritual adultery. James 4:4.
2.
This organization was drunken with the blood of saints. Rev. 17:6.
3.
It receives its power from the kingdoms of the earth. Rev. 17:3, 12, 13.
III. THE WOMAN IS BABYLON
1.
The pride and exaltation of the "woman" is that of Babylon. Dan.
4:30; 2 Thess. 2:4.
2.
She is decked in gorgeous apparel. Rev. 17:4, first part.
3.
From the "cup in her hand" she has caused all nations to drink. Rev.
17:4; 18:3.
4.
The Lamb—Christ—will war, with her and destroy her. Rev. 17:14.
Lesson 10 for June 5, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a check mark in the proper space.
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
EDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
SABBATH
Babylon the Great Is Fallen
MEMORY VERSE: "I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her,
My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her
plagues." Rev. 18:4.
STUDY HELPS: "Daniel and the Revelation," pp. 709-724; "Beacon Lights of
Prophecy," pp. 387-389.
THE FALL OF MODERN BABYLON
1. Under what symbol is the threefold message repeated? Rev. 18:1.
NOTE.—"I was shown the interest which all heaven had taken in the work
going on upon the earth. Jesus commissioned a mighty angel to descend and
warn the inhabitants of the earth to prepare for His second appearing. As the
angel left the presence of Jesus in heaven, an exceedingly bright and glorious
light went before him.
I
was told that his mission was to lighten the earth
with his glory, and warn man of the coming wrath of God."—"Early
Writ-
ings,"
p. 245.
[ 28
2.
What was the burden of this angel's message? Verse 2.
3.
How is this message related to that of Revelation 14:8?
ANSWER.—"This scripture points forward to a time when the announce-
ment of the fall of Babylon, as made by the second angel of Revelation 14, is to
be repeated, with the additional mention of the corruptions which have been
entering the various organizations that constitute Babylon, since that message
was first given, in the summer of 1844. A terrible condition of the religious
world is here described."—"The
Great Controversy,"
p. 603.
"Revelation 18 points to the time when, as the result of rejecting the three-
fold warning of Revelation 14:6-12, the church will have fully reached the
condition foretold by the second angel, and the people of God still in Babylon
will be called upon to separate from her communion. This message is the last
that will ever be given to the world; and it will accomplish its work."—Id.,
p. 390.
4.
What constitutes the falling away to Babylon? Rev. 18:3.
NoTE.—"With every rejection of truth, the minds of the people will become
darker, their hearts more stubborn, until they are entrenched in an infidel
hardihood. In defiance of the warnings which God has given, they will con-
tinue to trample upon one of the precepts of the Decalogue, until they are led
to persecute those who hold it sacred. Christ is set at naught in the contempt
placed upon His word and His people. As the teachings of spiritualism are
accepted by the churches, the restraint imposed upon the carnal heart is re-
moved, and the profession of religion will become a cloak to conceal the basest
iniquity. A belief in spiritual manifestations opens the doors to seducing spirits,
and doctrines• of devils, and thus the influence of evil angels will be felt in
the churches."—Id., pp. 603, 604.
5.
What completes the fall of Babylon? Rev. 14:8, last part.
NOTE.—"Not until . . . the union of the church with the world shall be
fully accomplished throughout Christendom, will the fall of Babylon be com-
plete. The change is a progressive one, and the perfect fulfillment of Revelation
14:8 is yet future."—Id., p. 390.
"When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the
hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands
with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our coun-
try shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution, . . . then we may know
that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan, and that the end
is near.
"As the approach of the Roman armies was a sign to the disciples of the
impending destruction of Jerusalem, so may this apostasy be a sign to us that
the limit of God's forbearance is reached, . . and that the angel of mercy
is about to take her flight, never to
return."—"Testimonies," vol.
5, p. 451.
"COME
OUT OF HER, MY PEOPLE"
6.
What call is given to the honest in heart? What reason is given?
Rev. 18:4.
NoTE.—"Angels were sent to aid the mighty angel from heaven, and I
heard voices which seemed to sound everywhere, 'Come out of her, My people,
that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues;
for her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniq-
uities.' This message seemed to be an addition to the third message, joining it
(29
1
as the midnight cry joined the second angel's message in 1844. The glory of
God rested upon the patient, waiting saints, and they fearlessly gave the last
solemn warning, proclaiming the fall of Babylon, and calling upon God's
people to come out of her that they might escape her fearful doom."—"Early
Writings,"
pp.
277,
278.
"As the message is preached, they are coming—coming by thousands.
Especially in these years since the restoration of the temporal power, it seems
as though, like a breath from heaven, a spirit of seeking for truth has swept
over many a land where people have not had the light that has shone in Prot-
estant lands. The Catholic peoples are to have their chance. And while in
Protestant lands there has been a sad falling away from the truth, and the Holy
Scriptures are less and less regarded as the voice of God, in the lands of Ca-
tholicism and in non-Christian lands there has come a revival of interest in the
truth of God.
"It seems truly that the first may be last and the last first in the closing
gospel work. The gospel message of the judgment hour is for all. It is against
none. It carries no denunciation of Catholic or Protestant or Moslem or non-
Christian. Its denunciations are denunciations, not of people, but of sin and
error and false teachings that make void the commandments of God. It pleads
with all men, by the love of Christ, to turn from sin and error to God's ever-
lasting way of truth. 'Come out of her, My people,' it calls; and they are
coming by the thousands every year to take their stand upon the platform of
the New Testament church—`the commandments of God, and• the faith of
Jesus.'
"—"Beacon Lights of Prophecy,"
pp. 388, 389.
7.
What principle in Christian relationship is here applied? Verse
4: 2 Cor. 6:14-18.
THE PLAGUES FALL ON HER
8.
What plagues are referred to in Revelation 18:4? Rev. 16:1-11.
9.
On what occasion are these plagues visited on Babylon? Rev. 18:6.
NorE.—When Babylon says, "I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall
see no sorrow," her pride will have reached the limit of God's forbearance.
The hour of her greatest self-confidence will be the fateful hour of God's wrath
visited upon her. The boastful claim I "am no widow" suggests that she has
been through days of widowhood; but now those days are over. The kings
that cast her off have now returned and given her support. But the day of
Babylon's triumph is the hour of her doom. Swift judgments from God are
visited upon her.
10.
How long do the plagues continue? Verse 8.
NOTE.—If we apply the prophetic rule of time prophecy, a day representing
a year (Ezek. 4:6), this time period will be one year.
11.
How do the kings and merchants regard the visitation of wrath
on Babylon? Rev. 18:9-19.
12.
Who are called upon to rejoice? Verse 20.
HER UTTER DESTRUCTION
13.
What striking illustration did the angel employ to show the com-
plete overthrow of Babylon? Verse 21.
NOTE.—This
illustration, while having its beginning during the visitations
[ 30 ]
of the plagues, must have its complete fulfillment following the millennium
(Rev. 20:10) ; for the beast which goes into the lake of fire is a union of this
false church and the state.
14.
What final graphic description is given of the fate of Babylon?
Rev. 18:22, 23.
NOTE.—"Like a great millstone, Babylon sinks to rise no more. The vari-
ous arts•and crafts that have been employed in her midst, and have ministered
to her desires, shall be practiced no more. The pompous music that has been
employed in her imposing but formal and lifeless service, dies away forever.
The scenes of festivity and gladness, when the bridegroom and the bride have
been led before her altars, shall be witnessed no
more."—"Daniel and the Rev-
elation,"
pp. 723, 724.
15.
What was found in Babylon? How can she be charged with the .
slain of all upon the earth? Verse 24.
NOTE.—Because of the full light shining upon the Jewish nation at the
time of His days in the flesh, the Saviour charged them with all the blood shed
from the days of righteous Abel to that time, because they were cherishing the
same spirit of murder. So with the apostate church of these last days. With
the full light of the ages streaming down to this present time, those who revert
to intolerance, persecution, will have the condemnation of past ages resting
upon them.
TEACHING OUTLINE
I. FALL OF MODERN BABYLON PREDICTED
1.
An angel comes crying, "Babylon is fallen." Rev. 18:1,
2.
2.
It is the same Babylon spoken of in the fourteenth chapter. Rev. 14:8.
3.
To receive her, to accept her favors, is to unite with her. Rev. 18:3.
II. "COME OUT OF HER, MY PEOPLE"
1.
God calls His people out of Babylon. Rev. 18:4.
2.
There is no communion between Babylon and God's obedient children.
Verse 4; 2 Cor. 6:14-18.
III. THE PLAGUES FALL ON BABYLON
1.
As the plagues fell on Egypt, they will fall on modern Babylon. Rev.
16:1-11.
2.
They will fall in her day of power. Rev. 18:6.
3.
The nations will weep at her destruction, but heaven will rejoice. Rev.
18:16-20.
IV. HER UTTER DESTRUCTION
1.
She will never again be found. Rev. 18:21.
2.
Never will voice again be heard in her streets. Verses 22, 23.
3.
The blood of martyrs will ever witness against her. Verse 24.
4—
THIRTEENTH SABBATH MISSIONS OFFERING
June 26, 1937
SOUTHERN ASIA DIVISION
--
t311
Lesson 11 for June 12, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a check mark in the proper space.
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
I
WEDNESDAY
I
THURSDAY
I
FRIDAY
I
SABBATH
The Marriage Supper of the Lamb
MEMORY VERSE: "Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to Him: for the
marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready. And to her
was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white:
for
the fine
linen is the righteousness of saints." Rev. 19:7, 8.
STUDY HELPS: "Daniel and the Revelation," pp. 725-728; "Christ's Object Les-
sons," pp. 219-237 (new ed., pp. 223-241).
THE MARRIAGE OF THE LAMB
1.
.
After beholding in vision the casting down of Babylon, what did
John hear? Where were the "much people"? Rev. 19:1.
NorE.—"There is a day just about to burst upon us, when God's mysteries
will be seen, and all His ways vindicated; when justice, mercy, and love will
be the attributes of His throne. When the earthly warfare is accomplished,
and the saints are all gathered home, our first theme will be the song of Moses,
the servant of God. The second theme will be the song of the Lamb, the song
of grace and redemption. This song will be louder, loftier, and in sublimer
strains, echoing and re-echoing through the heavenly
courts."—"Testimonies
to Ministers and Gospel Workers,"
p. 433.
2.
What do the redeemed saints say of God's judgments on Babylon?
Verse 2.
NorE.—Who can so clearly and justly declare God's righteousness, or jus-
tice, in the fearful judgments visited on the wicked, as those who have just
passed through the anguish, anxiety, and suspense of the "time of Jacob's
trouble"?
3.
How does the prophet John describe that glad hallelujah chorus
in heaven? What is the occasion of such rejoicing? Verses 6, 7.
4.
How is the apparel of the bride described? Verse 8.
5.
What is said of those who are called to the supper of the Lamb?
Verse 9.
NOTE.—"Soon
we heard His lovely voice again, saying,'Come, My people,
you have come out of great tribulation, and done My will; suffered for Me;
come in to supper, for I will gird Myself, and serve you.' We shouted, 'Alle-
luia! glory !' and entered into the city. And
I
saw a table of pure silver ; it was
many miles in length, yet our eyes could extend over it.
I
saw the fruit of the
tree of life, the manna, almonds, figs, pomegranates, grapes, and many other
kinds of. fruit."—"Early
Writings,"
p. 19.
OUR LORD'S PARABLE
6.
What parable did Jesus put forth concerning this occasion? Matt.
22:1, 2.
Nora;—While this parable had its application to the call given the Jews,
32
later to the Gentiles, in Christ's day, yet how much greater its fulfillment in
our day, just before the great marriage feast is to take place!
7.
When the marriage feast was all ready, what call was sent out?
With what result? Verse 3.
NOTE.—Like the Jews the professed followers of Christ today are no more
ready to respond to the invitation of grace than in former times, and especially
when all things are now ready for participation in heaven's inheritance.
8.
What shows there are repeated calls, growing more urgent, as
the end draws near? Verse 4.
NOTE.—For more than ninety years the advent message has been preached
in the Christian countries of the world.
9.
What excuses are offered for not accepting the invitation? Verses
5, 6; Luke 14:18-20.
NOTE.—Men today are engrossed in the temporary affairs of a world that
is soon to pass away. They are interested in getting gain, in social affairs, in
mere, intellectual attainments, in gaining positions of power and honor, while
there is little or no time for the consideration of the urgent call, "Come; for
all things are now ready." This thought comes as a solemn appeal to each of us.
10.
To whom did the king turn for guests? How urgent was the call?
Matt. 22:9, 10; Luke 14:23.
NoTE.—The last call was to be made in the streets and lanes, and in the
hedges. It is significant that today the message is gathering its greatest harvest
in the out-of-the-way places of the earth. The guests are responding, under
the compelling message, and, quickly the number will be made up.
WITHOUT A WEDDING GARMENT
11.
Before the great marriage feast, what precaution is taken? Matt.
22:11; Rev. 14:6, 7.
NoTE.—The examination of guests, in the parable, before they are seated,
is a fitting illustration of the investigative judgment just before the marriage
supper of the Lamb.
12.
What is provided for each guest? What is this otherwise called?
Isa. 61:10; Jer. 23:6; Rom. 3:26.
13.
What experience is essential that we may be admitted to the
marriage supper? Zech. 3:3-7.
14.
Who are said to go in when the Bridegroom comes? Matt. 25:10.
NoTE.—While every truly converted soul has been cleansed from sin and
clothed with the garments of Christ's righteousness, yet there must be main-
tained a watchfulness unto prayer, a cherishing and heeding of the Holy Spirit
in the daily life. The oil, a symbol of the Spirit, must be kept aflame. This
constitutes being ready.
TEACHING OUTLINE
I.
THE MARRIAGE OF THE LAMB
1. In heaven the people of God praise Him for His true judgments on
Babylon. Rev. 19:1, 2.
2.. The prophet describes the heavenly scene. Verses 6, 7.
3. The bridegroom's wife is robed in pure white. Verse 8.
{
33]
II. OUR LORD'S PARABLE
1.
Christ illustrated the marriage supper by a parable. Matt. 22:1, 2.
2.
The king repeatedly called His guests. Verses 3, 4.
•
3. Those invited ignored or resented this invitation. Verses 5, 6.
4. The king called guests in from highway and byway. Verses 8-10.
III. WITHOUT A WEDDING GARMENT
1.
Each guest must have a wedding garment. Verses 11, 12.
2. This white raiment is essential for a guest to enter the marriage feast.
Zech. 3:3-7.
3. Only those that are ready can attend. Matt. 25:10.
Lesson 12 for June 19, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY:
Place a check mark in the proper space.
SUNDAY
I
MONDAY
I
TUESDAY
I
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
I
FRIDAY
SABBATH
The Principles of Religious Liberty
MEMORY VERSE: "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's;
and unto God the things that are God's." Matt. 22:21.
STUDY HELPS: "Testimonies," vol. 5, pp. 449-454; "The Desire of Ages," pp.
601, 602.
THE HEBREW THEOCRACY
1.
Who was the real king over ancient Israel? What form of govern-
ment is this called? Judges 8:23; 1 Sam. 12:12.
NOTE.—A
kingdom ruled by God Himself is called a theocracy, from the
Greek word
Theos,
meaning God. The Lord ruled over Israel through judges,
who received their laws and their directions from God. When Israel requested
a king, God chose their king, and he, if righteous, executed the laws of Jehovah.
2.
When and how were God's laws given to Israel? Ex. 20:1-17; Deut.
10:1-5; 31:24-26; Joshua 8:30-32.
NOTE.—The first law, the Decalogue, is moral, and some of its precepts are
not enforceable by the power of state. For instance, the commandment for-
bidding coveting cannot be enforced by secular authority. The true national
law was given through Moses. While embodying the principles of the moral
law, yet its code had to do mainly with man's relation with his fellow man.
"According to the directions given by Moses, a monument of great stones
was erected upon Mount Ebal. Upon these stones, previously prepared by a
c3vering of plaster, the law was inscribed,—not only the ten precepts spoken
from Sinai and engraved on the tables of stone, but the laws communicated
to Moses, and by him written in a
book."—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"
p. 500.
3.
What experience shows that Israel willingly subscribed to God's
law and chose Him as their ruler? Ex. 19:7-9.
4.
What did God promise to make of Israel? Verses 5, 6.
[ 34
1
5.
What was the first step toward final and complete departure from
God? 1 Sam. 8:6, 7.
NoTE.—Israel was warned of the consequences of having an earthly king
rule over them, but they rejected the counsel of the Lord. Saul, their first
king, forsook God and His commandments. Later the kings of Israel and
Judah became so corrupt by alliances with heathen kings, and by following
their idolatry, that God gave them over to be ruled by pagan nations.
6.
How did the prophet describe the complete overthrow of the Jew-
ish nation? When will. the next theocracy be established? Ezek. 21:26,
27; Luke 1:31-33; Matt. 25:31.
NoTE.—Nebuchadnezzar removed the crown from Zedekiah's head. Fol-
lowing, the kingdom was overturned three times—by Medo-Persia, Grecia,
Rome, the last completely destroying the nation as such. The next theocracy •
will be when Jesus comes, whose right it is to reign. Any religio-political system
presuming to enforce religious laws is usurping the prerogatives of the coming
King of righteousness, and is a false theocracy.
SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE
7.
What did Christ say of His kingdom? John 18:36.
8.
What dual obligation did Christ enjoin on His followers? Matt.
22:17-21.
NOTE.—The Christian should render to the state its due, but should not
permit such service to infringe upon the worship of God. Here is recognized •
the principles of complete separation of church and state.
9.
In what sense are rulers "ministers of God" for good? What are
Christians to render to them? Rom. 13:3-7.
NOTE.—The genuine Christian will obey the laws of the land, except as they
conflict with the law of God. He will also strengthen the hands of rulers in
their administration of justice. He will pay his just obligations for the support
of the government, and will render due honor to the rulers of the land.
10.
When earthly rulers infringe on the Christian's obligations to
God, what should he do? Acts 4:19, 20; 5:29.
NOTE.—If deprived of personal rights and privileges, the Christian can yield
these; but when rulers require that which conflicts with duty and obedience
to God, then he must be true. to the commands of Jehovah, no matter what it
costs. Bible and Christian church history abound in remarkable examples of
loyalty to God in spite of imprisonment, torture, and death.'
THE FINAL CRISIS
11.
What is the attitude of the dragon toward the remnant church?
Rev. 12:17.
12.
How did the prophet declare the two-horned beast at last would
speak? What power is he to exercise? Rev. 13:11, 12.
NoTE.—The prophetic picture here drawn is of a power representative of
those liberal forces which for many decades have sought to give liberty of
conscience and freedom of thought and speech to men. The power begins as
[35)
a lamb, mild, kindly, liberal, freedom loving, but in the end it turns from its
lamblike character and begins to speak like a dragon. Other powers that have
followed its example for years, turn also with it to the oppressions and cruel-
ties of the leopard beast. It exercises all the power of the first or leopard beast
before it. The representative lamblike power is generally understood to be
the United States, the leading Protestant power of the Americas. However,
the principles of liberty and freedom she has represented have been followed
by other Protestant nations, and with her, they will repudiate their stand for
liberty and return to oppressions of former days.
13.
What will be enforced by law? Verses
16,
17.
NorE.—The mark of papal authority, as we have seen, is Sunday observ-
ance. Here is a false religious rest day set up in opposition to the Lord's
Sabbath, the seventh day of the week. Our duty is plain. We must render
obedience to God rather than to men. No nation has a right to legislate in
matters of religion, and Christians must oppose such measures and render "to
God the things that are God's."
14.
Knowing these fundamental principles, what is the duty of the
church? Isa. 60:1-4.
NOTE.—"It is our duty, as we see the signs of approaching peril, to arouse
to action. Let none sit in calm expectation of the evil, comforting themselves
with the belief that this work must go on because prophecy has foretold it,
and that the Lord will shelter His people. We are not doing the will of God
if we sit in quietude, doing nothing to preserve liberty of conscience. Fervent,
effectual prayer should be ascending to heaven that this calamity may be de-
ferred until we can accomplish the work which has so long been neglected. Let
there be most earnest prayer; and then let us work in harmony with our
prayers."—"Testimonies,"
vol. 5, pp. 713, 714.
TEACHING OUTLINE
I. THE HEBREW THEOCRACY
1.
God was Israel's true king. Judges 8:23; 1 Sam. 12:12.
2.
God gave His laws to Israel through Moses. Ex. 20:1-17; Joshua 8:
30-32.
3.
Israel willingly submitted to God's law. Ex. 19:7-9.
4.
Israel's first step from God was its demand for an earthly king. 1 Sam.
8:6, 7.
5.
The theocracy was overthrown—not to be re-established till Christ's
second coming. Ezek. 21:26, 27; Matt. 25:31.
II. SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE
1. Christ's kingdom not of this world. John 18:36.
7: He enjoins obedience to God and to Caesar. Matt.
22:17-21.
3.
In affairs of government rulers are God's ministers. Rom. 13:3-7.
4.
Their rule cannot enter God's domain. Acts 4:19, 20; 5:29.
III. THE FINAL CRISIS
1.
The dragon will seek to destroy the church. Rev. 12:17 ; 13:11, 12.
2.
It will seek to enforce religion by law. Rev. 13:16, 17.
I. By prayer and labor we are to enlighten men and ward off that evil
day. Isa. 60:1-4.
36 I
Lesson 13 for June 26, 1937
DAILY LESSON STUDY:
Place a check mark in the proper space.
SUNDAY. MONDAY
I
TUESDAY WEDNESDAY] THURSDAY
I
FRIDAY
I
SABBATH
The Final Conflict
MEMORY VERSE: "It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn
Thy statutes." Psalm 119:71.
STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pp. 613-652; "Testimonies," vol. 5,
pp. 711-718.
GOD'S JUDGMENTS UPON EARTH
1.
In the closing conflict of the earth's history, what direct issue is
brought to view? Rev. 13:14, 15; 14:9, 10.
NoTE.—"A great crisis awaits the people of God. A crisis awaits the world.
The most momentous struggle of all the ages is just before us. Events which
. . . we have, upon the authority of the prophetic word, declared to be im-
pending, are now taking place before our
eyes."—"Testimonies," vol.
5, p.
711.
"Fearful is the issue to which the world is to be brought."—"The
Great
Controversy,"
p. 604.
2.
Because of the universal apostasy, what will God bring upon the
earth? Isa. 24:1-6.
Norn.—Never within the memory of men now living has the earth been
so wasted by widespread drouth, immense floods, and great tornadoes and
hurricanes. Famines on a stupendous scale have in our day brought death to
millions. Disastrous earthquakes and the horrors of war and bloodshed have
added their toll of death and suffering.
3.
What is God's purpose in sending His judgments upon the earth?
Isa. 26:9, last part; Ezek. 18:23.
4.
Who will be accused of causing these latter-day judgments?
2 Tim. 3:12; Rev. 12:17.
NoTE.—"Those who honor the Bible Sabbath will be denounced as enemies
of law and order, as breaking down the moral restraints of society, causing
anarchy and corruption, and calling down the judgments of God upon the
earth."—"The
Great Controversy,"
p. 592. (See also pages 590, 591, 614.)
THE TEST OF LOYALTY
5.
Show the parallel between the tests which came to the three He-
brew worthies and to Daniel and the test that is to come to the remnant
people of God. Daniel, chapters 3 and 6.
NOTE.—Nebuchadnezzar's
decree was in violation of the second command-
ment, or a command to worship in a false way. The decree under Darius was
in direct conflict with the first commandment, or a prohibition to worship in
the right way. One decree meant that "you must worship a false god;" the
other, "you cannot worship the true." So in the closing conflict "the decree
will go forth that they must disregard the Sabbath of the fourth command-
ment, and honor the first day, or lose their
lives."—"Testimonies," vol.
1,
pp.
[ 37 I
353, 354. The test with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answers to the
requirement that we
must
keep Sunday, and Daniel's test, to the
prohibition
to keep the seventh day, the true Sabbath.
6.
How universal will be the decree to receive the mark of the beast?
Rev. 13:16.
7.
What is meant by receiving the mark in the right hand or in the
forehead?
Answer.—The •
hand is the symbol of labor. "Whatsoever thy hand findeth
to do, do it with thy might." Eccl. 9:10. The mind is that with which we
worship. "With the mind I myself serve the law of God." Rom. 7:25. To
receive the mark in the hand will be for men, in the last final issue, to cease
to labor on Sunday in deference to the law. To receive it in the forehead will
be voluntarily and willfully to keep the day in the face of light and opportunity
to know that another day is the Sabbath of the Lord.
8.
By what method will all be forced to keep Sunday? Rev. 13:17.
THE LAST DECREE AND ITS EFFECTS
9.
What decree will finally be issued against all who remain obe-
dient to God? Rev. 13:15.
NOTE.—Justinian gave nonbelievers six months in which to embrace Chris-
tianity, under pain of loss of office and the right of inheritance. Pope Leo X
gave Luther sixty days in which to recant his "errors," otherwise "to be seized
and sent to Rome to be dealt with as a heretic." In the decree against the Jews,
King Ahasuerus gave just eleven months to prepare for the slaughter. Esther
3:12-15. "The decree.which is to go forth against the people of God will be
very similar to that issued by Ahasuerus against the Jews in the time of
Esther."—"Testimonies," vol.
5, p. 450. See Josephus' "Antiquities of the
Jews," Book XI, ch. 6, on this.
10.
What will the people of God then do? Isa. 26:20; Psalm 11:1.
NOTE.—"As the decree issued by the various rulers of Christendom against
commandment keepers shall withdraw the protection of government, and
abandon them to those who desire their destruction, the people of God will
flee from the cities and villages and associate together in companies, dwelling
in the most desolate and solitary places. Many will find refuge in the strong-
holds of the mountains. Like the Christians of the Piedmont valleys, they will
make the high places of the earth their sanctuaries, and will thank God for
the 'munitions of rocks.' But many of all nations, and of all classes, high and
low, rich and poor, black and white, will be cast into the most unjust and cruel
bondage. The beloved of God pass weary days, bound in chains, shut in by
prison bars, sentenced to be slain, some apparently left to die of starvation in
dark and loathsome dungeons. No human ear is open to hear their moans; no
human hand is ready to lend them help."—"The
Great Controversy,"
p. 626.
11.
In this conflict, against whom are the powers of earth arrayed?
What will be the outcome? Rev. 17:14; 2 Thess. 1:7-10.
THE FINAL TRIUMPH
12.
Where
did the prophet see the saints after this conflict? What
song of triumph will they sing? Rev. 15:2-4.
[381
13.
Before God sends His final judgments on earth, what will He do?
Mal. 4:5, 6.
NoTE.—"The Lord of heaven will not send upon the world His judgments
for disobedience and transgression, until He has sent His watchmen to give
the warning. He will not close up the period of probation until the message
shall be- more distinctly proclaimed. The law of God is to be magnified; its
claims must be presented in their true, sacred character, that the people may
be brought to decide for or against the truth. Yet the work will be cut short
in righteousness. The message of Christ's righteousness is to sound from one
end of the earth to the other to prepare the way of the Lord. This is the glory
of God, which closes the work of the third
angel."—"Testimonies,"
vol. 6, p. 19.
14.
After all the conflicts, trials, and afflictions are over, what will
the righteous be able to say? Ps. 119:71.
"Sometime when all life's lessons have been learned,
And sun and stars forevermore have set,
The things that our weak judgments here have spurned,
The things o'er which we grieved with lashes wet,
Will flash before us, out of life's dark night,
As stars shine most in deepest tints of blue,
And we will see how all God's ways were right,
And how what seemed reproof was love most true."
TEACHING OUTLINE
I.
GOD'S JUDGMENTS UPON EARTH
1.
A decree to worship the beast will be made. Rev. 13:14, 15.
2.
God will send judgments in this time of world apostasy. Isa. 24:1-6, 9.
3.
Responsibility for these judgments to be laid on God's people. 2 Tim:
3:12; Rev. 12:17.
II. THE TEST OF LOYALTY
1.
The test will be as severe as to the Hebrew worthies. Daniel, chapters
3, 6.
2.
The test will reach rich and poor, high and low, everywhere. Rev. 13:16.
3.
Boycott, with its hunger and suffering, will test the Christian's faith.
Rev. 13:17..
III. THE LAST DECREE'S EFFECTS
1.
Death will follow failure to worship the beast. Rev. 13:15.
2.
God's people will flee and hide. Isa. 26:20.
3.
The conflict is with God and Christ. Rev. 17:14; 2 Thess. 1:7-10.
IV. THE FINAL TRIUMPH
1.
Assured victory will be celebrated in song. Rev. 15:2-4.
2.
In affliction we learn God's ways more perfectly. Ps. 119:71.
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THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING SILVER JUBILEE
The first Thirteenth Sabbath Offering went to the "Cities of India."
The Silver Jubilee Offering of June 26, 1937, is to go to 'Southern Asia, that is,
India and Burma, with Ceylon.
The first Thirteenth Sabbath Offering amounted to $7,674.13.
The objective for the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering to be given June 26, is $150,000.
This can be raised in North America if we average only one dollar a church member
on this special occasion.
The overflow is to be used as follows:
On the first $100,000 there will be set aside a $10,000 overflow for the Southern
Asia Division, as an additional appropriation to meet special needs.
On the balance, 20 per cent of any sum raised will be divided between other mis-
sion divisions. On a goal of $150,000, it will permit the division of another $10,000
overflow among them. And it will give the General Conference Treasury many thou-
sands of additional funds to use in these divisions, besides the direct gifts in overflows.
This will be a fitting celebration of the Silver Jubilee for the Thirteenth Sabbath Offer-
ing through which there has already been raised $7,000,000 for our world-wide mission
work.
